Nancy Lou Quintrell, age 86, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, July 25, 2024, in Eureka. She was born in Eureka on October 5, 1937, to Bernard and Luella Anderson. She attended Eureka City Schools from 4th through 12th grades and graduated with honors from Humboldt State College in 1960 with a degree in elementary education. She would spend a total of 26 years teaching children in Eureka City Schools in various grades. She cherished her time as a teacher and made many lifelong friends. If there was laughter coming from the teacher’s room, you could be sure Nancy was there.

In 1957, she married Donald Quintrell, which began their 67 years together. Over the years they welcomed two sons, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Family was profoundly important to Nancy. She especially enjoyed family get togethers including birthday parties, holiday gatherings, going on family trips or just entertaining out of town family members in town for a visit. She called it “making memories.”

Nancy was active in many community organizations including the Cutten Ridgewood Recreation Association, HSU Alumni Association (president 1994-1996), Eureka Teachers Association, CRTA Division #27 (president 2000-2003), Humboldt Reading Council, St. Joseph Hospital Volunteers, and a volunteer at the Redwood Coast Jazz Festival to name a few. Nancy has received many recognitions over the years for her service to the community and for her contributions as a teacher.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband Don, her two sons, Dean Quintrell (Laurie) and Gary Quintrell (Heidi). Her grandchildren, Alyssa Peper (Charley), Natalie Martin (James), Sarah Renner (Justin), and Kathryn Quintrell (Ben). Great grandchildren Logan, Ella and Peyton. She is also survived by many other close family members and friends who were very close to her heart.

A celebration of life will be held on August 17, 2024, at 1 p.m. in the afternoon at Eureka First United Methodist Church (1901 F St.) in Eureka, A reception will immediately follow the service at the Eureka Woman’s Club (1531 J St) in Eureka. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the California Retired Teachers Association Division #27 Scholarship Fund Nancy Quintrell. Mail checks to Humboldt Area Foundation CalRTA #27. 363 Indianola Road, Bayside, CA 95524. Memo line: Scholarship Fund Nancy Quintrell.

###

The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Nancy Quintrell’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.